Judson-ex Housler could be vital cog for Cardinals

GLENDALE, Calif. – Arizona Cardinals teammates Rob Housler and Robert Gill bonded this spring thanks to their common love for the Spurs.

The two San Antonians – Housler is a Judson-ex, Gill an East Central graduate – often found themselves in the minority during the NBA Finals.

In Arizona, they love the Heat,” Gill said in a nod to all the Suns fans who loathe the Spurs. “Me and Rob were by ourselves out here.”

The Cardinals also employ another San Antonian, Sam Houston alumnus Jarett Dillard.

Housler is a tight end whose roster spot is secure. Gill and Dillard are wide receivers battling to make the team.

Housler led the NFC West in tight end catches last season with 45. With strong-armed Carson Palmer at quarterback and new Arizona coach Bruce Arians looking at creative ways to make use of two-tight end sets, Housler could have a breakout years.

“I see a wideout playing tight end, a guy that’s very versatile,” Arians said of Housler to Arizona Sports in June per revengeofthebirds.com. “He can play in the backfield, at tight end, split out wide.

“I think the sky’s the limit as far as where he can get talent-wise, and I really like the way he plays football.”